Copycat modeling 'agency' solicits nude photos

Medford-based IMD Modeling warns that someone is apparently posing as one of its employees and soliciting nude photographs from girls in the Rogue Valley.

By SAM WHEELER

Medford-based IMD Modeling warns that someone is apparently posing as one of its employees and soliciting nude photographs from girls in the Rogue Valley.

The imposter, who goes by Elena Brown, created a Facebook page mimicking IMD's Facebook page a few months ago, IMD owner Teresa Pollman said. Posing as a modeling scout, the imposter contacted teens on Facebook, asking them to send photos and wondering whether they would do nude photos.

"We're constantly having to defend our industry and make sure that people know that we are a very reputable, family-oriented company that spends a lot of time and energy making sure our kids feel good and comfortable," Pollman said. "We're trying to give them confidence and not take it away. This makes me feel like there is a possibility that Elena Brown is a guy, which is just disgusting.

"And I don't care if it's a 14-year-old or a 20-year-old, it's still preying on females. Things like this just make people go, 'Ewww.' "

Pollman said she reported the fake Facebook page to Medford police this fall. The page was then taken down, but popped up again this month.

After noticing the page's recent reactivation, Pollman said, she made contact with Elena Brown through the social media network and the page was immediately deactivated again. However, she believes Elena Brown is still sending out emails through the address imdmodeling@gmail.com.

The IMD does not use Gmail, Pollman said, and would never solicit nude photographs from minors or anyone, ever.

Its representatives meet with all local clients before their photos are electronically submitted, Pollman said.

Medford police Lt. Mike Budreau said no police report has been filed, as police don't have evidence of criminal activity at this point.

The modeling agency is asking anyone who has been contacted by Elena Brown to call IMD Vice President Jill Hidy at 541-858-8158 or jill@imdmodeling.com.

IMD's Facebook page can be found at www.facebook.com/imd.medford.

The nearly 16-year-old local company also can be found online at www.imdmodeling.com.

Reach reporter Sam Wheeler at 541-776-4471 or by email at swheeler@mailtribune.com.